LANSING, MI (WKZO FM/AM) — As people across the country continue to seek vaccinations for COVID-19, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is reinforcing several helpful tips offered by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to help residents watch for scams.
“These are unprecedented times, and as health care professionals and authorities work through the best ways to provide COVID vaccines to people who need them, there may be some confusion or misinformation circulating about exactly what to expect,” Nessel said. “Scammers will try to capitalize on these circumstances and take advantage of people by using a variety of tactics. We must all remain watchful and aware of their tricks, and I encourage people to follow these simple tips to make sure they don’t fall victim to a scam.”
While the Michigan Department of Attorney General has only received a handful of COVID-19 scam complaints, the office wants Michiganders to remain alert of attempts by bad actors to steal their money or personal information.
The FTC warns that you cannot pay to sign up for the COVID vaccine. Anyone who asks for a payment to put you on a list, make an appointment, or reserve a spot in line is a scammer.
The FTC also warns that scammers will try to get you to pay to obtain early access to the vaccine.
Those on Medicare are also potential targets of these scams. The FTC says that you don’t have to pay to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Only scammers will ask you to pay.
Scammers will also present sales ads for the vaccine. It cannot be bought – anywhere. It’s only available at federal and state approved locations.
Last but not least, nobody should be calling, texting, or emailing about the vaccine and asking for Social Security, bank account, or credit card numbers.
Nessel urges anyone targeted with these scams to report it to the Attorney General’s office by calling 877-765-8388.
